hello,
I wanted opinions of my situation. I am currently using a panasonic tz1 which I have enjoyed for a few years now. I am considering getting a new camera and can't decide which would be better. I am looking at the TZ 5 or possibly waiting for the FZ28.
Which is better? I love the idea of a 18x zoom. The Tz 1 has a 10x zoom but is about 5 mp. The TZ 5 looks good as well,and I can get it now. I don't like spending too much time re editing photos so the RAW format isn't a big seller and i do like zooming during video which is why I am thinking od the fz28 instead of the fz18. I basically use the camera for vacation and filming stage dance recitals. ( I probably will eventually get a video camera for that but not a big need at this moment. ) My keys are versatility, easy to use/carry, good video & good pictures. If there is another camera that would be better please feel free to suggest it.
Thanks for your help.

Hey DPAO.
I have the TZ5 for some days now and all I can say is that I'm quite impressed with what I can do so far, it's in my opinion a pretty nice package, consisting of a 10x Zoom camera and a nice HD Video recording device with the ability to use the optical zoom. Sure, as pointed out in the review on this site, the video (especially the audio) isn't as good as from a HD camcorder, but I must say I don't regret that I bought it so far...

My personal thoughts on your situation are that I'd get the TZ5 and if you need manual controls or bigger zoom, go get a DSLR, yeah I know, more expensive but the differences in size to a FZ18 aren't that great...